UCLA spokesman Phil Hampton said research projects undergo a strict vetting process to ensure they are warranted. He said Fuster's research has made major contributions to the understanding of how memory works.

About 15 police officers were on hand; no one was arrested or injured.

UCLA neuroscientist J. David Jentsch, whose silver Volvo was set on fire March 7, organized a pro-research rally at UCLA on April 22. His demonstration was sparked by a string of arson attacks and threats against UCLA scientists since 2006.